Ofcom has approved a request from Radio Ceredigion Limited to switch off two of its FM transmitters in west Wales.
This means Nation Radio Wales will stop broadcasting on 97.4 FM (Lampeter) and 96.6 FM (Cardigan), continuing only on 103.3 FM from Blaenplwyf.
The decision follows a proposal submitted in March this year, with Ofcom confirming that the move meets regulatory requirements and does not significantly impact listener access.
The licensee explained that FM listening in the area has been falling, while digital platforms including DAB, online streaming and the Nation Player app have grown. Nation Radio Wales is available on four DAB multiplexes across Wales and online via nationplayer.com.
Radio Ceredigion Limited also said the cost of maintaining three FM sites in sparsely populated areas had become unsustainable. Transmission costs have risen, local advertising revenue has declined, and ageing equipment would need replacement. The company said reducing transmitter use would also save energy.
To help offset any loss of coverage, the station has applied to increase the power of the remaining Blaenplwyf transmitter.
It also plans to run an on-air campaign and launch a support page at nationplayer.com/bigswitch to help listeners switch to other platforms.
In its assessment, Ofcom found that the service on DAB covers “largely the same area” as the two FM frequencies due to be shut down. It also noted that no public responses were received during its one-month consultation.
Ofcom concluded that switching off the transmitters was a proportionate step. It would help keep the service running without surrendering the FM licence entirely.
The changes are expected to take effect in June or July this year.
The original Radio Ceredigion launched in December 1992 as a bilingual local station for west Wales.